5 (26)
Chicago
Chicago's Hidden Pedway: Underground Walking Adventure
180
Overview
Walking Tour: Underground Chicago via the Pedway is an adventure that explores the city's secret underground tunnel system, called the Pedway, and some special sights above ground. This walking tour is perfect for anyone who wants to see a different side of Chicago and learn about its history and culture.
The tour starts in the Swissotel lobby with a short introduction to the Pedway. Guests will go underground to visit the Cultural Center and see the beautiful Tiffany Dome. The tour continues through the Pedway to Macy's, where visitors can admire the Tiffany ceiling and the famous Walnut Room. Then the tour heads west to see the Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza and the Chicago Temple with its Sky Chapel.
After a quick train ride, the tour arrives at the start of Route 66, where guests can take photos with the Art Institute's lion statues. Finally, the tour visits Millennium Park to see Cloud Gate (The Bean), Lurie Gardens, and Crown Fountain. The tour includes transit tickets and a local expert guide. Gratuities, food, and drinks are not included. 
Highlights
Explore Chicago's Secret Pedway: Discover the hidden underground tunnel system beneath the Loop.
See Famous Landmarks: Visit the Cultural Center, Macy's Tiffany Ceiling, and Millennium Park.
Ride the 'L' Train: Experience Chicago's elevated train system like a local.
Expert Local Guide: Learn about Chicago's history and culture from a knowledgeable guide.
Perfect for Small Groups: Enjoy a more intimate and personalized tour experience.
Walk Route 66 Terminus: Witness the beginning of the iconic Route 66 and the Art Institute Lions.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved discovering hidden parts of Chicago they didn't know existed.
-
Many reviewers highlighted the guide's knowledge and passion for Chicago history.
-
The tour provides a unique perspective of Chicago beyond the typical tourist spots.
-
Several visitors enjoyed the mix of underground and above-ground sights.
A few people mentioned the walking distance can be tiring for some.
-
One reviewer suggested more time at certain stops would be appreciated.
The Journey
Pedway Entrance (Lobby)
Begin your subterranean adventure at the entrance to Chicago's Pedway system. More than just a series of tunnels, it's a hidden world beneath the city streets, offering a unique perspective on Chicago's architecture and bustling city life, shielded from the elements.
Chicago Pedway
Explore the Chicago Pedway, an intricate network of underground tunnels and overhead walkways connecting buildings throughout the downtown area. This unique system allows you to traverse the city regardless of the weather, revealing hidden architectural gems, quirky shops, and a fascinating slice of Chicago's urban infrastructure.
Tiffany Dome (Macy's)
Witness the breathtaking Tiffany Dome inside Macy's on State Street (formerly Marshall Field's), a stunning example of Louis Comfort Tiffany's artistry. This magnificent stained-glass masterpiece illuminates the grand Walnut Room, making it a must-see architectural marvel.
Macy's on State Street
Step into Macy's on State Street, a Chicago landmark and architectural masterpiece. Beyond its exceptional retail experience, the store boasts the iconic Tiffany Dome, the historic Walnut Room restaurant and during the holiday season, the Great Tree. Its festively decorated windows during Christmas make it a magical destination.
Pedway (City Mall)
Continue your Pedway exploration through a popular city mall, where you'll find a vibrant mix of shops, eateries, and public art. This bustling hub offers a glimpse into the daily life of Chicagoans and provides a convenient and engaging way to navigate the downtown area.
Daley Plaza (Picasso & Christkindlmarket)
Emerge from the Pedway into Daley Plaza, home to the iconic, untitled Picasso sculpture, a symbol of Chicago's public art scene. During the holiday season, experience the enchanting Christkindlmarket, a traditional German Christmas market brimming with handcrafted gifts, festive food, and Old-World charm, making it the most authentic holiday market of its kind outside of Europe.
Chicago City Hall & County Building
Behold the grandeur of Chicago's City Hall and County Building, architectural landmarks housing the city's government. If you're lucky, witness a wedding ceremony at the Marriage Court, a testament to the city's vibrant civic life and romantic spirit.
The Loop (L Train)
Experience Chicago like a local with a ride on the 'L' train through the Loop, the city's central business district. This elevated train provides a unique vantage point to admire Chicago's iconic architecture and a glimpse into the city's energetic urban landscape.
Art Institute Lions & Route 66 Terminus
Stand at the origin/terminus of the legendary Route 66, a symbol of American freedom and adventure. Then, visit the Art Institute of Chicago and greet the majestic bronze lions that guard its entrance, iconic symbols of the city's rich cultural heritage.
Millennium Park
Conclude your tour in Millennium Park, a modern urban oasis. Marvel at the Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as 'The Bean,' and experience the city's holiday spirit with the dazzling City of Chicago Christmas Tree. Enjoy a stunning convergence of art, architecture, and nature that defines Chicago's vibrant culture.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes transit tickets and a local expert guide to lead the way. It does not include gratuities or any food and beverages. The meeting point is in the lobby of the Swissotel.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this tour involves a good amount of walking. Also, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. Some parts of the Pedway can be warmer than outside, so dress in layers.
Review Summary
Travelers consistently praise the Walking Tour: Underground Chicago via the Pedway for its unique insight into a little-known part of Chicago, highlighting knowledgeable guides and interesting architectural and historical details. The opportunity to explore the city's underground network and hidden art installations is a favorite aspect. Some reviews note challenges with accessibility due to stairs and occasional unreliable elevators, which can be difficult for visitors with limited mobility. Overall, the tour is regarded as a well-paced, informative, and enjoyable experience offering value for its price, especially appreciated during Chicago's harsh winter weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
PMore like this
Chicago
$35
Uncover Chicago's Dark Past: A Murder Mystery Adventure!
5.0
(710 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
The Chicago Murder Mystery Tour blends history and intrigue as you solve a fictional crime. Explore famous neighborhoods, delve into true crime legends, and play detective. Enjoy interactive gameplay and souvenir mugshot photos. Perfect for history buffs and true crime fans seeking a unique, immersive city experience, requiring walking and observation skills.
Chicago
$90.01
Chicago Art Institute: Skip-the-Line Private Tour
5.0
(271 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Private Art Institute of Chicago Skip-the-Line Guided Tour. This is a special walking tour for people who love art and want to see the best pieces at the Art Institute of Chicago without waiting in long lines. The tour is just for the group and a guide, so it feels personal.
What to Expect: The tour visits famous artworks like 'Paris Street, Rainy Day' and 'Sunday on La Grande Jatte'. People will also see 'Nighthawks' and 'The Old Guitarist'. The guide shares stories about the art and artists. The Art Institute of Chicago is a very big museum with lots of famous art. It has art from all over the world and different times in history.
This private tour lasts for 2.5 hours and includes a professional tour guide just for the group. It also includes all entrance fees. The tour is wheelchair friendly. This tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, but the guide suggests using UBER or a taxi. Gratuities (tips) are not included in the price.
Chicago
$64
Glide Through Chicago: A Lakefront Segway Adventure!
5.0
(345 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
The 2-Hour Chicago Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour offers a unique way to explore Chicago's iconic landmarks. Effortlessly glide through Grant Park, visit Buckingham Fountain, and explore Museum Campus. This tour blends sightseeing with adventure, perfect for experiencing Chicago's highlights. Requires basic balance; training provided.
Chicago
$35
Chicago's Historic Treasures: Architecture Walking Tour
4.9
(404 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Chicago Walking Tour: Historic Treasures of Chicago takes people on a walk to see amazing buildings on Michigan Avenue and State Street. Many of these buildings were built between 1890 and 1930. These buildings help show how Chicago wanted to be a big, important city.
On this tour, people can see buildings made by famous architects like Daniel Burnham and Louis Sullivan. They will also hear stories about these special buildings. Some of the places to see are the Chicago Architecture Center, the Wrigley Building, and the Palmer House Hotel. Other cool buildings on the tour include the Carbide and Carbon Building, the Reliance Building, and the Chicago Cultural Center.
This tour includes entry to the Chicago Architecture Center's galleries and a guide who knows a lot about Chicago's buildings. This tour does not include hotel pick-up, a place to store bags, or a coat check. Since the Chicago Architecture Center is a nonprofit, the money from the tickets helps the center teach people about architecture and help the community.
Chicago
$65
Glide Through Chicago: Segway Tour of Landmarks & Museum Campus
5.0
(230 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
The Chicago Landmarks & Museum Campus Segway Tour offers a unique way to see iconic sights. Explore Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain, and the Museum Campus with a professional guide. This small-group tour provides personalized sightseeing along the Chicago lakefront, blending history with a fun, intimate experience.
Chicago
$79.99
Chinatown Chicago: Food Tour & Hidden Gems
4.9
(593 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Explore Chicago's Chinatown on the Chinatown Food and Walking Tour. This tour shows off tasty food and cool history in one of America's best Chinatown neighborhoods. Bobby’s Bike Hike, known for top food tours recognized by USA Today and Tripadvisor, guides this fun walk. The tour lasts 3 hours.
Guests will walk through Chinatown Square. They'll taste yummy Cantonese dim sum, treats from Portuguese-Chinese bakeries, spicy Szechuan dishes, and Xi'an foods. Expert guides tell how these foods and cultures came to Chicago. You'll discover the unique history and flavors of Chicago's Chinatown.
The tour includes a local guide, dinner, and drinks. It doesn't include a suggested $10-15 tip for the guide, which can be given in cash, Venmo, or PayPal. This culinary adventure guides guests through stops like Dim Sum Restaurants, Noodle Restaurants, Portuguese Egg Tart Shops, and Chinatown Square. Learn about Chicago's Chinatown History & Culture as you enjoy the flavors of the neighborhood.
Nearby Events
Soldier Field
Jun 27
5:30 PMEd Sheeran LOOP Tour: Live at Soldier Field Chicago
Ed Sheeran brings his highly anticipated LOOP Tour to Soldier Field in Chicago, delivering an unforgettable evening of pop music and heartfelt storytelling. Known for his chart-topping hits and intimate live performances, Sheeran is set to captivate fans with new music and fan favorites in one of the city’s most iconic venues.
Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears and a historic landmark on the shores of Lake Michigan, offers a world-class concert experience with sweeping views and top-tier acoustics. The LOOP Tour marks Sheeran’s first major North American stadium run since his record-breaking Divide Tour, making this a must-see event for music lovers.
United Center
Oct 03
7:30 PMDoja Cat Tour Ma Vie World Tour at United Center
Doja Cat brings her highly anticipated Tour Ma Vie World Tour to the United Center in Chicago, delivering a dynamic live experience that blends her signature hip-hop flair with global pop influences. Fans can expect a high-energy setlist featuring hits like 'Paint The Town Red,' 'Woman,' and 'Kiss Me More,' as Doja Cat showcases her evolution as one of music’s most innovative performers.
United Center, home to the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, is renowned for its state-of-the-art sound and electric atmosphere, making it the perfect venue for Doja Cat’s largest world tour to date. This stop is part of a global journey that marks her first time headlining major arenas across multiple continents.
American Family Insurance Amphitheater - Summerfest Grounds
Jun 27
7:00 PMPost Malone, Carter Faith Live at Summerfest 2026
Post Malone brings his genre-blurring hits and breakout country crossover energy to the American Family Insurance Amphitheater at Summerfest, with special guest Carter Faith. Fans can expect a high-octane set packed with chart-toppers like 'I Had Some Help,' 'White Iverson,' 'Better Now,' and tracks from his record-breaking album F-1 Trillion, plus surprise collaborations and fan favorites spanning his diamond-certified catalog.
Post Malone has redefined modern hip-hop and pop with a sound that blends rap, rock, and country influences, earning eight 2025 GRAMMY® nominations and headlining Coachella. The American Family Insurance Amphitheater at Summerfest Grounds offers a lakeside festival setting with premium sound and sightlines, making it one of Milwaukee’s most iconic outdoor concert destinations.
Notre Dame Stadium
Sep 04
7:30 PMBook AC/DC & The Pretty Reckless at Notre Dame Stadium
AC/DC’s POWER UP TOUR 2026 lands at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, presenting a powerhouse concert featuring the legendary rock band alongside The Pretty Reckless. This tour supports AC/DC’s acclaimed 2020 album "Power Up," marking their dynamic return to North America with a commanding live show that blends timeless anthems with electrifying new energy.
The Pretty Reckless brings their nu-metal and hard rock edge as a compelling opener, complementing the iconic status of AC/DC. Notre Dame Stadium, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic architecture, provides a thrilling backdrop for this unforgettable musical experience in the heart of Indiana.
Genesee Theatre
Jan 24
7:00 PMBook Aziz Ansari Comedy Show at Genesee Theatre
Aziz Ansari: Hypothetical Tour arrives at the historic Genesee Theatre in Waukegan, IL, showcasing an evening of sharp, relatable comedy. Known for blending personal storytelling with cultural satire, Ansari's live show promises witty, fresh material that resonates with diverse audiences.
Aziz Ansari is an acclaimed comedian, actor, and creator of the Emmy-winning Netflix series MASTER OF NONE. Recently praised for his Netflix specials and upcoming film GOOD FORTUNE, he remains a standout figure in comedy. The Genesee Theatre, renowned for its elegant architecture and vibrant arts scene, offers an intimate setting perfect for this engaging performance.
United Center
Dec 17
7:00 PMChicago Bulls vs Cavaliers Preseason Basketball
The Chicago Bulls take on the Cleveland Cavaliers in an exciting NBA preseason matchup at the United Center in Chicago. This game showcases two competitive teams preparing for the regular season, with the Bulls featuring emerging talent like Matas Buzelis and the Cavaliers displaying their evolving roster with standout forward Evan Mobley. The preseason provides fans an early glimpse of each team's strategies and player development as they build momentum heading into the 2025-26 NBA season.
The Cleveland Cavaliers bring a squad with depth and youth potential, while the Chicago Bulls continue to demonstrate their competitive edge with strong rebounding and defensive capabilities. The United Center, one of the NBA's premier venues, offers fans an electric atmosphere and world-class amenities for an unforgettable live sports experience.
Chicago Best Things to Do: Concerts, Helicopter & Food Tours
The Chicago skyline is hiding a secret- a ton of them, actually. It’s more than a view: it’s got adventures you're meant to explore. Breathe in the winds and excitement of a helicopter tour, party at top concerts, or dive into food and pizza tours. Walk beside history on a gangster mob tour, take a fireboat or bus tour. Looking to get wild tonight? Find events going on sooner than tomorrow, from EDM to country concerts. Check all your bucket list boxes, and live stories you’ll remember forever.
View Chicago Activities